Sports Betting & Problem Gambling: Strategies for Prevention & Treatment
July 6–10, 2026
In just one week, earn 90 Act 48 credits or 3 graduate credits towards a master’s degree at Millersville University!
Compass Mark is partnering with Millersville University to host a Summer Institute on Sports Betting and Problem Gambling on campus from July 6-10, 2026.
Sports betting and online gambling are causing serious challenges for students and communities. This Summer Institute brings together educators, coaches, athletic directors, school counselors, nurses, social workers, addiction counselors, and others to find practical solutions for this growing problem. We will examine how sports betting apps are designed to make users feel in control and knowledgeable, when in fact they encourage compulsive behaviors, stress, and financial loss.
Participants will recognize the warning signs of problem gambling, understand why young people and athletes are at greater risk, and explore effective ways to prevent and address gambling addiction through hands-on workshops, expert speakers, and the latest research.
Days 1 – 4 are on campus, and Day 5 (Friday) is virtual.
Hands on workshops. Expert speakers. The latest research.
Expert speakers include:
- Dr. Jeffrey Wimer, Professor of Wellness and Sport Sciences, Millersville University
- Dr. Harry Levant, Director of Gambling Policy, Public Health Advocacy Institute, Northeastern University
- Dr. Michelle Malkin, Director of the Gambling Research & Policy Initiative, East Carolina University
- Josh Ercole, Executive Director, Council on Compulsive Gambling of PA
- Abby Peters, MS, LPC, CAADC, Founder, SHHARP Counseling LLC
- Eric J. Webber, MA, CADC, CCS, CSAT/CMAT, CCPG, Senior Behavioral Health Therapist, Legal Professionals Program Coordinator, Caron Treatment Center
- And more!
Apply for a Scholarship
Scholarships to cover all tuition and course fees ($2,000 value) are available for those who live/work in Lancaster or Chester Counties, PA. The deadline to apply is January 31, 2026.
The application to Millersville University for the course doesn’t open until February 10, 2026. Compass Mark will walk you through that process. Your MU application fee is included in the scholarship.
Questions: Eric Kennel, ekennel@compassmark.org